UTI Specialist

Alexandra Pellicena, MD, FACOG -  - OB-GYN

Alexandra Pellicena, MD, FACOG

OB-GYN located in Houston, TX

Women are more prone to urinary tract infections (UTIs) than men, and pregnant women are at higher risk of UTIs than women who are not pregnant. If you’re experiencing pain or burning during urination, foul-smelling or dark-colored urine, frequent urination, or difficulty voiding, contact Dr. Alexandra Pellicena at her Houston, Texas, clinic for evaluation and treatment today. She provides compassionate, confidential, and expert care for women.

UTI Q & A

What is a urinary tract infection?

A urinary tract infection is an infection affecting your urinary tract, which includes your bladder, ureter, and urethra. Urinary tract infections can cause pain and other complications if left untreated. Medical attention is usually necessary for urinary tract infections.

What causes urinary tract infections?

Many different factors contribute to the development of a urinary tract infection (UTI). If you've recently received treatment for a yeast infection, the medication can cause an imbalance between healthy yeast and healthy bacteria, leading to a urinary tract infection, or an overwhelming number of bacteria.

Backflow of urine, the introduction of bacteria from feces to the urethra, and incontinence can also contribute to urinary tract infections. Furthermore, some sexually transmitted diseases can lead to the development of a UTI.

How do I know if I have a urinary tract infection?

The most common sign of urinary tract infection is pain during urination or when your bladder is full. Other symptoms of urinary tract infections include:

  • Urgency
  • Frequency
  • Burning
  • Blood in your urine
  • Foul-smelling urine
  • Dark colored urine

Additionally, some people experience lower back or abdominal pain. If you're experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, you should seek treatment from a qualified physician.

What kind of doctor treats urinary tract infections?

OB/GYNs specialize in women's health, including all of the diseases that can impact women. Because women are at high risk of developing urinary tract infections, OB/GYNs have extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of UTIs.

Dr. Pellicena provides compassionate, effective treatment in her Houston, Texas clinic.

How are urinary tract infections diagnosed and treated?

When you arrive, Dr. Pellicena will first learn more about the signs and symptoms you've been experiencing and your medical history, including any medications you've taken recently and other medical problems you've had, as these can all contribute to the development of a UTI. After reviewing your medical history, she'll perform a thorough physical examination.

If she believes you might be suffering from a urinary tract infection, she requests a sample of your urine to send to the lab for testing. If the urine comes back positive for bacteria, you may be prescribed an antibiotic to assist in treating the infection.

If you believe you have a urinary tract infection, schedule a consultation with Dr. Pellicena today.